From Capability to Adoption: Skills, Perceptions, and Attitudes Driving Lecturers’ AI Adoption in Northwest Nigerian Universities
Keywords:
AI Adoption, Technological Skills, Higher Education, Perceived Ease of Use, Attitude, Academic EngagementAbstract
Purpose: This study investigated the factors influencing lecturers’ adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for teaching, research, and academic engagement in federal universities across Northwest Nigeria. It examined digital competence, perceived ease of use, and attitudes toward integrating AI into academic practice.
Methodology: A mixed-methods descriptive survey using a convergent parallel design was employed. Quantitative data were obtained from 759 lecturers through the AI Technology Adoption Questionnaire (AITAQ), while qualitative data came from 21 semi-structured interviews. Analysis involved descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, guided by the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT).
Results: Digital competence was moderate (mean = 3.12), showing that lecturers were comfortable with basic ICT tools but had limited experience with advanced AI applications. Perceived ease of use was positive (mean = 3.08), yet constrained by inadequate technical support and integration challenges. Attitudes toward AI were generally favourable (mean = 3.32), though concerns persisted about ethics, originality, and job security. Qualitative findings indicated reliance on self-learning, peer support, and varying levels of institutional readiness.
Novelty and Contribution: By combining DOI and UTAUT, the study provides a contextualised model explaining how competence, ease of use, and attitudes interact with institutional barriers to influence AI adoption among Nigerian university lecturers.
Practical and Social Implications: The study recommends targeted capacity-building programmes, formation of AI learning communities, and improved technological infrastructure. Strengthening partnerships, offering incentives, and establishing ethical guidelines are essential for enhancing creativity, collaboration, and sustainable AI integration while addressing institutional disparities.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Usman Abubakar, Samuel Adenubi Onasanya (Author)
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
